6 pilots of brand-new PAF AW-109Es attack helicopters to arrive in December

MANILA, — Philippine Air Force (PAF) commanding officer Lt. Gen. Jeffrey Delgado announced that the six pilots, selected to fly the brand-new attack versions of the AgustaWestland (AW)-109Es, are scheduled to return home this December.

"They (six pilots) will be arriving home this December," he said.
Training for the pilots, which started last June 14, are being conducted at Costa Di Samarate.

Two of the brand-new AW-109s are expected to be delivered by January 2015.

Eight aircraft were ordered for the PAF, Delgado said.

The AW-109 attack helicopter contract is worth Php3.44 billion.

The eight AW-109s are expected to boost the PAF's capability in providing close air support to combat forces in the ground.

The PAF and AgustaWestland signed the contract November 2013.

The aircraft will be used to perform a range of duties including homeland security, armed reconnaissance and close support.